The published Army cadet fitness components
Annex D of the 2026 Army cadetship booklet describes body composition assessment, local muscular endurance and aerobic endurance. It specifies push-ups, sit-ups and a 2.4 km run, together with the relevant assessment conditions.
The published local muscular endurance minimum is 20 push-ups and 20 sit-ups, with the stated 60-second test periods. The booklet specifies modified push-ups for female applicants. Technique and counted repetitions matter, so use the official demonstration and qualified instruction rather than assuming any movement variation counts.
Read the run grading carefully
For the 2026 Army cadetship, the published Green run thresholds are under 11 minutes 40 seconds for male applicants and under 13 minutes 10 seconds for female applicants over 2.4 km. The Amber thresholds are under 12 minutes 45 seconds and under 13 minutes 50 seconds respectively.
Amber is not an unconditional offer or the same thing as meeting Green. The booklet allows consideration for induction depending on HR demand, with further run requirements during training. Its use of strict inequality symbols also makes boundary cases a matter to confirm with the recruiting authority. Do not assume a rounded personal time establishes an official grade.
Use the official preparation programme appropriately
Annex D includes a suggested four-week programme, but explicitly says it assumes a certain level of fitness. It recommends qualified instruction, suitable equipment, a safe measured route, warm-up and recovery. If you are uncertain about health or ability, follow the booklet’s advice to discuss that with your GP.
The programme is not a personalised prescription. A short calendar cannot establish that every starting point can safely meet the standard. Use the official material with a qualified instructor who can adapt training to your circumstances.
Prepare the practical details
Read the invitation for equipment, location, reporting time and documents. The booklet advises sports gear and related items for assessment. Check the exact instructions rather than relying on a list from another route.
PSP can help you organise tasks and find the published standards. We do not determine official repetitions, medical suitability or eligibility, and a logged training result is not a Defence Forces test pass.
Questions about this stage
Does Amber guarantee a place?
No. The 2026 booklet describes conditional consideration depending on HR demand and further training requirements.
Are these confirmed 2027 standards?
No. They are the published 2026 Army cadetship standards. Check the next competition terms when issued.
Sources and current instructions
These guides explain the preparation process. Check your current competition booklet and invitation before relying on a requirement or date.
Official decisions, eligibility, medical clearance and assessment results belong to the recruiting organisation. A PSP practice score is not an official pass mark or selection prediction.